Now that it’s nearly summer, we can all look forward to the warmer weather and sunshine of the months to come. And what better way to compliment these lovely days ahead than with a nice cool glass of white wine.

We continue to share some recommendations for first-class bottles that make an ideal aperitif on a warm evening or can add a little life to Sunday brunch.

Here is the second group: a few California Chardonnays as well as a couple Sauvignon Blancs from over seas.

Hoyt Famly Vineyards 2010 Chardonnay

Grape(s):  100% Chardonnay

Region: Santa Barbara County

Price: 30-35

Review:

Aromas of apple, pear, all-spice, and vanilla rise up from a glass. Flavors of Golden Delicious apple and crisp pear meld with suggestions of vanilla, toasty oak, and sweet spice on the palate.  A rich yet crisp wine, those who enjoy a nice balance of fruit and vanilla should try this bottle.

Rating: 90

 

De Tierra Vineyards 2011 “Vindegard” Chardonnay

Grape(s):  100% Chardonnay

Region: Monterey County

Price: 15-20

Review:

Aromatics of tropical fruit, baked pear, and creamy oak rise up from a glass. Notes of pineapple, pear, tart apple come together with suggestions of sweet spice and vanilla on the palate. Fairly rich and round but still offering a fresh acidity, fans of bright, layered Chardonnays will enjoy this bottle.  Just 90 cases produced.

Rating: 89

 

Clos La Chance 2011 Chardonnay

Grape(s):  100% Chardonnay

Region: Monterey County

Price: 10-15

Review:

Notes of pineapple, lemon, and pear mingle with creamy oak on the nose.  Flavors of pear, tart apple, and tropical fruit emerge on the palate with a hint of vanilla.  A lively wine with a crisp acidity, fans of bright Chardonnays, without the strong dose of vanilla, will enjoy this bottle.

Rating: 87

The Beach House 2012 Sauvignon Blanc

Grape(s):  Sauvignon Blanc 80% & Semillon 20%

Region: South Africa

Price: 5-10

Review:

Aromas of citrus fruit and gooseberries mingle with suggestions of grass and white pepper. A sip reveals flavors of lemon, grapefruit, and gooseberry accented by notes of minerals and bell pepper.  A crisp, refreshing white that would pair well with sushi or shrimp cocktail, it’s ideal for summer gatherings, especially at its price.

Rating: 88

Queulat 2012 Gran Reserva Sauvignon Blanc

Grape(s):  Sauvignon Blanc

Region: Chile

Price: 10-15

Review:

Aromas of bell pepper, grapefruit, and pear greet the senses. Flavors of citrus fruits and pear meld with suggestions of grass and minerals on the palate. A lively wine with a bright acidity, fans of herbaceous whites will enjoy this bottle.

Rating: 86